Key Info of Next Steps in Brighton’s £10 Million Valley Gardens Project

The planned Valley Gardens project in the centre of Brighton has been in the pipelines for some time. The scheme aims to create a green space in the city, to encourage alternatives modes of transport and to improve the city’s connectivity.

Next Tuesday the council’s environment, transport and sustainability committee are due to meet. They will discuss design plans for the third phase of the project. They will look at improvements in links to the city centre, lighting and bus infrastructure. The third phase focuses on the area from Edward to Street to the Old Steine, as well as considering the Palace Pier roundabout.

Councillor Gill Mitchell has spoken of why these amendments would be so vital:

“We want to make cycling, walking and public transport more attractive and viable options as well as creating an attractive, sustainable and safe green space.”

As these are changes designed for the Brighton community, Mitchell, the committee chairwoman, also stated the need for public approval: “It’s vital residents have their say on the area. The public survey allows residents to tell us what works and what doesn’t so that we can consider their views as design options are drawn up.”

The plans have proven somewhat divisive however, especially in the wake of previous delays. Pete West, a Green councillor, spoke of the frustrations already faced during the project: “These are important, and already long overdue, benefits for our city. Labour tried to block this vital project when it was introduced by the Greens.”

Regardless of any political spats brought about by these substantial changes, it’s hugely encouraging to see progress being made!